Rochdale Welcomes Back ITV's Acclaimed Drama for Second Series
The borough of Rochdale has once again been transformed into a dramatic backdrop for television audiences, with filming for the highly anticipated second series of ITV's acclaimed drama After the Flood taking place throughout 2025. The production, which is scheduled to premiere on ITV at 9pm on Sunday, January 18, 2026, brings national attention to Rochdale's diverse landscapes and urban settings.
Film Office Support Enables Seamless Production
The Rochdale Film Office (RFO) played a crucial role in facilitating the filming process, working closely with the production crew to ensure a smooth and film-friendly experience. The dedicated team provided comprehensive support including location sourcing and management, liaison with landowners and local services, assistance with permissions and logistics, and on-the-ground support during filming.
To protect privately owned land and support future filming opportunities, the Film Office has chosen to use general descriptions of locations rather than identifying specific sites. Filming took place across a range of settings, including the rugged moorlands of Rochdale and various roads and streets throughout the borough.
Industry Professionals Praise Rochdale's Approach
Unit manager Ian McDonald, who oversaw filming for Series 2, expressed his appreciation for the borough's support: "The whole team in Rochdale has been an absolute delight to work with, overcoming challenges that would have previously made filming certain scenes unachievable. Following this experience, I would not hesitate to actively promote Rochdale as a film friendly borough."
Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation at Rochdale Borough Council, commented: "We are proud to welcome productions like After the Flood back to Rochdale. The series showcases the beauty and character of our borough, and it highlights the value of the work our Film Office does in supporting the creative industries. Film and television bring economic benefits, raise our profile nationally, and help tell powerful stories using our landscapes and communities."
Cultural Events Showcase Rochdale's Vibrant Arts Scene
Toad Lane Concerts Continue Musical Tradition
Meanwhile, Rochdale's cultural calendar continues to thrive with regular events that celebrate the arts. The Toad Lane Concerts at St Mary in the Baum recently presented pianist Tim Kennedy in their 1,169th concert since taking over from the council in 2001. The Queen's Award-winning concert series takes place every Wednesday at 12.30pm at the Grade 1 listed church.
Tim Kennedy, a Manchester-based freelance professional musician with over fifteen years' experience, delivered an impressive programme that spanned classical masters and contemporary works. The performance featured:
- JS Bach's majestic Organ Sonata No. 4 Adagio in Stradal's adaptation
- Ludwig van Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata and Für Elise
- Johannes Brahms' Intermezzo in A, op 118, No.2
- Contemporary miniatures by Pamela Wedgwood, Randall Hartsell and Frederick Magle
- Ragtime celebrations including works by William Bolcom and George Gershwin
Organ Recitals and Youth Theatre Festival
Further enriching the cultural landscape, ORTOA (Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside Organists' Association) presents celebrity recitals at Rochdale Town Hall, with soloist Peter Kwater scheduled to perform on Saturday, January 31, 2026. The programme includes works by notable composers including a triumphant piece by Oliphant Chuckerbutty.
In neighbouring Oldham, a significant youth theatre initiative sees more than 100 young people from 10 local schools and theatre groups participating in the new OPAN Youth Theatre Festival. Running from Tuesday, February 3 to Friday, February 6, 2026, at Oldham Theatre Workshop's brand-new Theatre Studio, the festival centres around a newly commissioned play, King of the Trees, written by playwright Alice Bunker-Whitney.
The play, inspired by the tragic loss of the Sycamore Gap tree, has been developed through workshops with Oldham's young people and teachers. Each school will present its own unique version of the adaptable script, with groups encouraged to add devised scenes that reflect their creativity.
Community Leaders Champion Creative Opportunities
Martina Murphy, CEO of Oldham Coliseum Theatre, emphasised the importance of such initiatives: "Creating meaningful opportunities for young people is at the heart of what the Coliseum stands for. The OPAN Youth Theatre Festival allows us to open our doors wider, giving young people across Oldham the chance to explore their talent, build confidence and experience the joy of making theatre together. These are the storytellers, leaders and creatives of the future, and it's essential that we invest in them now."
James Atherton, artistic director of Oldham Theatre Workshop, added: "Young people thrive when they're given the space to create, to take risks and to connect with others who share their passion. This festival brings 10 schools together to do exactly that, filling Oldham with a positive buzz of creativity. We're proud to collaborate with Oldham Coliseum Theatre on a project that not only develops skills but celebrates youth voices and strengthens our artistic community."
Regular Community Events Continue to Engage Residents
Rochdale's weekly cultural offerings include the popular Toad Lane Concerts featuring the Roth Guitar Duo with Emma Smith and Sam Rodwell, while Smallbridge Library hosts the Bookstart Baby and Bear Club every other Thursday during term time. These regular events provide valuable opportunities for community engagement and artistic appreciation across all age groups.
The return of After the Flood reinforces Rochdale's growing reputation as a sought-after filming location, offering a compelling blend of natural beauty, urban variety, and proactive support through its dedicated Film Office. Simultaneously, the borough's thriving cultural scene demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting both established artists and emerging talent, creating a rich tapestry of creative expression that benefits residents and visitors alike.
